NORTH-East judge Peter Fox QC has been handed a rare honour.

Judge Fox has been appointed Honorary Recorder of Middlesbrough and becomes the first senior legal figure to hold the office.

At the opening of proceedings at Teesside Crown Court, on Friday, barrister Peter Johnson congratulated Judge Fox on his appointment on behalf of the legal fraternity.

"It is appropriate," he said, "to say farewell to Judge Fox QC and bid a welcome to the Honorary Recorder of Middlesbrough."

Thanking Mr Johnson, Judge Fox said: "I am honoured indeed to have this bestowed upon me."

It was Middlesbrough Council's first appointment of its kind, though similar appointments have been made in Leeds, Newcastle and Sheffield.

Judge Fox started his working life as a naval cadet, serving 12 years with the Royal Navy, during which time he began studying law. He left the service to become a pupil barrister.

He progressed through the profession to become one of the most highly respected Queen's Counsel, both prosecuting and defending in numerous major trials. He was appointed a circuit judge 16 years ago.

A Middlesbrough council spokesman said the authority was delighted to have made the appointment, which recognised both the reputation of the man and the growing importance of Teesside as a Crown Court Centre.

In future, Judge Fox will wear red robes, similar to those worn by High Court judges, and will be addressed as My Lord.